OUR STORY

About Umbrella: Crafting Connection, One Sip at a Time

Hi there, and welcome to Umbrella. I'm Meg Paradise, and like many of you, I've navigated a world where "celebration" often meant "alcohol." But what if celebration could be about connection, flavor, and feeling genuinely good? What if we could redefine social experiences, making them inclusive and vibrant, without the need for a buzz?

That's the question that sparked Umbrella. Interestingly enough, the initial vision came to me in a lucid dream in 2021. Weeks later, I found myself taking the first steps to bring that dream to life. It wasn't just about creating a non-alcoholic bottle shop or bar; it was about building a community. A place where curiosity is celebrated, where mindful choices are the norm, and where every sip tells a story.

Umbrella has seen many iterations since that initial dream, and we're committed to continually evolving. We're now thrilled to have Charlie Blue Arm as a co-owner, bringing a heightened culinary direction to our offerings. This shift is a testament to our dedication to exploring the depths of flavor and crafting truly exceptional beverage experiences.

We're more than just purveyors of exceptional non-alcoholic beverages. We're curators of experiences. From our thoughtfully designed tasting events at Self Care Marketplace, to our pop-up bars at local art shows and comedy nights, we're dedicated to bringing people together in meaningful ways.

Our mission is to:

  • Elevate the Non-Alcoholic Experience: We source and craft the most innovative, flavorful, and functional beverages, proving that "non-alcoholic" doesn't mean "boring."

  • Foster Community Connection: We create spaces and events where people can connect, share, and celebrate, without the pressure of alcohol.

  • Champion Mindful Living: We believe in making conscious choices that support well-being, both individually and collectively.

  • Empower Local Collaboration: We partner with Raleigh's incredible artists, chefs, and makers, showcasing the vibrant creativity of our city.

We're passionate about redefining what it means to gather, to celebrate, and to connect. We believe that true connection happens when we're fully present, when we're sharing genuine moments, and when we're exploring new ways to experience life.

Whether you're sober, sober-curious, or simply looking for a delicious and mindful alternative, we invite you to join our community. Let's raise a glass (of something extraordinary) and celebrate the art of connection.

Welcome to Umbrella.